Consideration and Adoption of Ordinance No. 2016-04:  An ordinance of the City Council of the City of Flagstaff, abandoning whatever right, title or interest it has in an approximately 82 square foot portion of public right-of-way generally located at the northwest corner of Aspen Avenue and Beaver Street to FMH Enterprises, LLC. (Abandonment of right-of-way - Marriott development)

During site plan review of the proposed Marriott Residence Inn, City staff recognized the need for proper placement of the hotel and other improvements to allow for a future roadway expansion along Humphreys Street.  Staff determined acquisition of 8 feet for future right-of-way was desirable.  This in turn moved the building to the east which results in an encroachment into public right-of-way at the southeast corner of the project, as shown on the attached site plan.  Staff recommends 82 feet of right-of-way be abandoned as shown on Ordinance Exhibit B.  Staff finds the abandonment of 82 square feet of right-of-way will not have an adverse impact on the City or its operations and protects the City's interests.  The property must be purchased at fair market value, which has been determined by the City's Real Estate Manager at $5,600. 

The applicant has prepared the required sketch and legal description of the right-of-way to be abandoned.  No expenditure is required for the abandonment.  Under the terms of the associated Development Agreement the abandoned right-of-way will be purchased for $5,600.

COUNCIL GOALS:
3) Provide sustainable and equitable public facilities, services, and infrastructure systems in an efficient and effective manner to serve all population areas and demographics
6) Relieve traffic congestion throughout Flagstaff

REGIONAL PLAN:
Goal LU.1. Invest in existing neighborhoods and activity centers for the purpose of developing complete, and connected places.
Goal LU.7. Provide for public services and infrastructure.
Goal LU.9. Focus reinvestment, partnerships, regulations, and incentives on developing or redeveloping urban areas.
Goal LU.11. Prioritize the continual reinvigoration of downtown Flagstaff, whose strategic location, walkable blocks, and historic buildings will continue to be a vibrant destination for all.
Goal LU.12. Accommodate pedestrians, bicyclists, transit riders, and private cars to supplement downtown’s status as the best-served and most accessible location in the region.

Goal T.4. Promote transportation infrastructure and services that enhance the quality of life of the communities within the region.
Goal T.1. Improve mobility and access throughout the region.
 

This item was discussed at the January 12, 2016, Work Session and discussion and first reading of the ordinance took place at the January 16, 2016, Council Meeting.

If the City Council decides not to abandon the right-of-way the hotel will need to be relocated to the west which places it into the property identified as desired future right-of-way.  The benefit of approving the abandonment is it allows for acquisition of the desired right-of-way along Humphreys Street at current market value and without permanent constructed improvements.  If the abandonment is not approved and the hotel is moved to the west, future acquisition will be more costly and may not be feasible.

Adoption of an Ordinance requires a public hearing which provides an opportunity for the community to become informed and they may provide public comment on the proposed abandonment.